Dumbleton Coat of Arms

The Fairy Knowe Hotel in Wilderness, Western Cape, has a storied history that intertwines with the Dumbleton family legacy. Here’s a brief overview:

Early Beginnings: The story begins with Henry and Ellen Dumbleton, who emigrated from Hampshire, England, and purchased the farm “Avontuur” in 1847. Henry renamed the property to “Oakhurst” and farmed there for several years.

Fairy Knowe’s Construction: In 1874, Walter Dumbleton built a hilltop house named Fairy Knowe, located behind the current hotel. This became the seaside home for Walter and his wife Emma.

Archaeological Significance: The Dumbleton family also had an interest in archaeology, with Roderick Dumbleton unearthing a Khoi skeleton in the 1890s and later facilitating excavations by Professor Goodwin in the 1930s.

Hotel Establishment: The Fairy Knowe Hotel itself has been welcoming guests since 1924, earning the affectionate title of ‘the grand dame’ of Wilderness. It underwent renovations in 2021, revitalizing its historic charm.

Tourist Attraction: Today, the hotel serves as a perfect base to explore the Garden Route, offering a range of activities and being a paradise for bird watchers with over 280 species in the area.

The Fairy Knowe Hotel not only provides a gateway to the natural beauty of the Wilderness area but also preserves a piece of the region’s cultural and historical heritage.